50TH REUNION - August 12, 2000
West End Racing Children's Community Sailing
Summer sailing program for children in Provincetown
August 13, 2000 was proclaimed WEST END RACING CLUB DAY by the Town of Provincetown as the organization celebrated its 50th Reunion of service to the community, teaching sailing and swimming to Provincetown's youth.
Francis 'Flyer' Santos was on hand to greet alumni and accept numerous awards including citations from the Town of Provincetown, Congressman William Delahunt, Senator Edward Kennedy, State Representative Shirley Gomes, Portuguese Ambassador Joao da Rocha Paris and President Bill Clinton, presented by Mary Jo Avellar, Chairman of the Board of Selectmen and Ann Maguire, neighbor extraordinaire.
Although an easterly wind and gray skies discouraged most of the alumni from going sailing, spirits were high as intrepid youngsters outfitted a couple of Sunfish and dotted the horizon with their colorful sails.
Friends gathered from 9 am on enjoying early morning coffee and pastries and then a full scale barbecue complete with homemade kale soup and lobster rolls. It was reassuring to see as many as three generations of some families and know that the traditions of sailing, racing and friendship are being carried on and nourished.
Everyone enjoyed recalling memories and renewing friendships realizing we'd all been part of something very special that thankfully continues on through the efforts of 'Flyer', his family, the kids themselves and other concerned and involved citizens. Flyer's 90th and 100th birthday albums are available to view online through the Provincetown History Project archive.
Many thanks to everyone whose devotion and hard work made the reunion a memorable event!